11 / 2001
Swaziland * Car tire sandal
Swaziland is an independent kingdom, almost entirely surrounded by South Africa and for a small part bordering with Mozambique. 95% of the population belongs to the Swazi people. A small population of Zulu's is living in the south. The above sandal is entirely made of car tire. The soles are cut from the tread of the tire while the foxing and the upper are cut from the sides. Both tribes are very much artistically inclined as is shown by the way that the white rubber is carved out for decoration. Car tire sandals are made and worn all over the world in dozens of countries.
Research and text by : W.A.H.M. Habraken-Oosterhout-Holland
Illustration by : Colin Ball - Waalwijk - Holland